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Following Starship SN15's success, SpaceX evaluating next steps toward orbital goals - NASASpaceFlight.com - NASASpaceflight.com

Following Starship SN15's success, SpaceX evaluating next steps toward orbital goals - NASASpaceFlight.com - NASASpaceflight.com

Following Starship SN15's success, SpaceX evaluating next steps toward orbital goals - NASASpaceFlight.com - NASASpaceflight.com
May 09, 2021 1 min, 43 secs

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Following Starship SN15’s successful test, options include reflying the vehicle to achieve key reusability objectives, launch SN16 to a higher altitude, or push straight through to orbital testing on Super Heavy

Testing numerous modifications to the vehicle, Starship SN15 validated the improvements by conducting a smooth launch site campaign without the need to swap out a Raptor engine following its static fire tests

The vehicle once again conducted the hover before then flipping to transition for the “bellyflop” return to the launch site, with another stable descent with good control via its aero surfaces

Now, with SN15 secured on the landing pad, SpaceX engineers will be able to fully examine a flown Starship, which will provide valuable data for the test program

Over at the Production Site, Starship SN16 has continued to be prepared inside the High Bay

Following the mating of its nosecone, all of its aero surfaces have now been installed, technically ready to make the roll down Highway 4 to the launch site

That documentation noted it would involve Starship SN20 on Super Heavy BN3

However, as with Super Heavy BN3, the aforementioned fluid nature of SpaceX’s Starship planning could alter which vehicle takes the leap to orbit

BN3 sections have already been spotted by Mary (@bocachicagal), along with BN2 and even BN2.1 sections, which may likely involve a Super Heavy – and/or Test Tank – for ground testing to pave the way for BN3’s launch

Numerous pieces of the Super Heavy pad still need to be assembled in-situ, with the launch table currently at the production site, along with additional GSE that will be required to cater for the thirsty Super Heavy booster

The Launch Tower will also sport a crane for mating Starship atop Super Heavy and eventually large mechanical arms that will “catch” the booster when it returns to the launch site

Regardless, SpaceX’s Starship program will require a huge supply of engines, not least the Super Heavy boosters, each of which will require a stock of 28 engines per booster

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